Sometimes you have to shake things up! This is true particularly as we stay inside under COVID-19-cover and tend to do the same things day in and day out.

The most under-utilized method of inspiration is the Shake-up. Just as we fall into a routine in our daily lives, we can do the same in our careers. So, as you think about your career, are you doing the same things over and over? When was the last time you took on something that was outside of your comfort zone or different than the norm?

Part of the reason we hesitate to use this very powerful tool is that we are focused on the wrong outcome. Of course, when you try something new, you are not proficient. You will not likely ace it out of the gate. Acing it is the wrong measure. You are not trying something new to deliver another level of proficiency, you are trying something new for discovery. For years I worked in Financial Services and now I am working in Biotechnology. I am making discoveries every day about the complexities of HR in this new space. Same HR functions – D&I, compensation, recruiting, leadership development, etc. Different challenges on how the business works and how to find diverse workforce to fuel the success of the business. Changing industries was a shake-up for me.

The Shake-up gives you the opportunity for new insight. Do you confirm what you already know, or perhaps you discover things about the work or about yourself that will help you in the future. Either way, you can’t get to these discoveries if you don’t shake it up! And remember, your measure is the learning.

Dr. Lisa

PS: Our theme song is “Shake It Up Tonight” by Cheryl Lynn